Police are warning residents in the Steventon area to be vigilant following a series of lead thefts in the village.

Officers were called to the Steventon Allotments and Relief in Need charity building in Hanney Road, St Michael’s C of E School in The Causeway, Steventon, and Staddlestones in Church Street, Shellingford, after thieves stole and damaged lead from roofs.

It is believed the thieves attempted to steal lead from the charity building late on Thursday night or in the early hours of Friday.

The thefts left both the allotment and school buildings damaged and follow a further similar incident at Steventon Village Hall.

PC Philip Jones said: “Although we are keeping an open mind, we believe the incidents may be connected because the school and Hanney Road are so close together.

“I would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in Steventon in the early hours of Friday to contact me on 0845 8 505 505 and would urge people who see anyone acting suspiciously in the village, especially after dark, to call 999.”